Liposuction: 10 Tips for the Recovery Period

Your liposuction procedure can be an exciting time. Likely, you’ll be focused on your great results and newfound confidence. However, your recovery period is actually one of the most important phases of your procedure, so it’s important to take the right steps. Here are 10 tips to make your recovery go smoothly and successfully.

1. Listen to Your Plastic Surgeon’s Advice

It’s always a good idea to listen to your plastic surgeon. By adhering to their post-procedure instructions, you’ll be able to recover as quickly as possible. If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to contact your plastic surgery team and ask any questions.

2. Rest

Some patients make the mistake of trying to do too much too soon. Your body needs time to properly heal. Not only is it important to get plenty of sleep, but you also need to avoid doing any activities that raise your heart rate too much. This can cause excess bleeding and additional complications.

3. Stay Hydrated

Make it a point to consume plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration decreases the amount of oxygen in the blood and slows the absorption of nutrients. Additionally, it can cause dryness and increase your chances of visible scarring.

4. Eat Healthy

Your diet can have a big impact on the healing process. Proper nutrients will help you to quickly get back on your feet. Keep the consumption of sodium, sugar, and saturated fats to a minimum. Instead, eat foods that are high in antioxidants, fiber, and protein. It can even be helpful to prepare healthy meals and snacks ahead of your surgery so you don’t need to worry about cooking.

5. Get Light Exercise

While you’ll need to stay away from vigorous exercise, you should still try to stay mildly active. Going for a short walk around the neighborhood will help get your blood circulating, which can speed up the healing process. It can also prevent blood clots and help avoid stiffness.

6. Avoid Smoking and Drinking

After getting liposuction, refrain from smoking and drinking for at least four to six weeks. These activities can increase the chances of complications and can also impair your healing ability. You should also avoid smoking and drinking in the months leading up to your surgery, as well.

7. Avoid Swimming, Hot Tubs, and Baths

Exposing your incisions to water for extended periods of time can increase your chances of infection during recovery – especially in bodies of water that can contain harmful bacteria and other organisms. Avoid swimming or soaking your incisions in hot tubs or baths until your plastic surgeon indicates otherwise.

8. Care for Your Incisions

When it comes to preventing scarring and infections at the incision site, proper wound care is essential. By changing dressings at the recommended time and using the recommended techniques, you’ll be able to keep the area clean and dry. Your plastic surgery team will make sure you understand your care plan and make sure you have the right materials. Make sure to contact them if you have any questions about caring for your incisions and what complications to watch out for.

9. Lymphatic Massage

Weekly lymphatic massages can help with boosting your recovery and helping your body process unneeded tissues and fluids. Your plastic surgery team can show you the right techniques for your unique procedure.

10. Stay Away From Blood-Thinning Medications

Blood-thinning drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, and are not recommended for liposuction recovery. This is especially true during the first few weeks of the recovery period since dangerous bleeding can occur. The best approach is to seek other ways to manage discomfort and rely on your plastic surgeon’s prescribed medications. If you have unmanageable discomfort, make sure to contact your plastic surgeon as soon as possible.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to discuss your options for liposuction, Dr. Richardson can help. We invite you to schedule a private consultation to discuss your goals for liposuction by calling our Gulfport office or filling out our online form.